Welcome back to the FLEX Finder, your weekly guide to uncovering hidden value in the fantasy football landscape. As the 2026 NFL season kicks off on September 9, we're entering the most unpredictable stretch of the year. Roles are still being defined, depth charts are fluid, and early-season opportunities can make or break your fantasy roster. According to insights gathered by Vulius Sports, Week 1 is the perfect time to strike on undervalued assets before the fantasy football market adjusts.
Running Backs: Value in Uncertain Times
Let's start with the backfield, where injuries and committee approaches create prime opportunities. Braelon Allen of the New York Jets stands out at just $4,700 on DraftKings. Despite his imposing physique drawing criticism from some analysts, Allen proved his red-zone prowess last season before an injury derailed his campaign. With the Titans' run defense ranking 21st in DVOA last year and their linebacker corps depleted—one starter is nursing a concussion—Allen is in a prime spot to find the end zone. The Vulius analysis desk views him as the safest bet among the low-cost backs this week.
Another intriguing option is Mike Washington Jr. of the Las Vegas Raiders, priced at $4,600. With Ashton Jeanty nursing an ankle injury, Washington could see extended work in a backfield that offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak tends to split. The Raiders' opponent, the Miami Dolphins, have a defense that surrendered significant waiver-wire additions in Week 1, making them a favorable matchup. As highlighted on Vulius, Washington's role should be substantial regardless of Jeanty's status.
Out in Seattle, George Holani is a sneaky play at $4,600. The Seahawks are expected to lean on Jadarian Price as the lead back until Zach Charbonnet returns, but reports suggest Holani will handle third-down duties. The Patriots' defense, which struggled against the run in the Super Bowl, lacks depth beyond their secondary. Christian Barmore's injury further weakens their front, making Holani a viable FLEX option.
In Green Bay, Chris Brooks and Kaleb Johnson offer a cheap handcuff duo at $4,500 and $4,400, respectively. With MarShawn Lloyd's durability in question, Brooks has the third-down role locked down, while Johnson could earn more touches as he gets up to speed. The Packers' running game is a mystery, but someone must carry the ball, and these two provide value in a timeshare.
Wide Receivers: Unearthing Gems
At wide receiver, Kayshon Boutte of the Houston Texans is a must-consider at $4,500. With Jayden Higgins out due to an ACL injury and Jaylin Noel battling injuries in camp, Boutte is poised to be the No. 2 target opposite Nico Collins. The Texans' passing game needs a complement, and Boutte's ability to produce with limited targets makes him a high-upside play against the Buffalo Bills' new defensive coordinator, Jim Leonhard.
Pat Bryant of the Denver Broncos is another value at $4,200. The Chiefs' cornerback corps has been overhauled—Trent McDuffie is gone, and they're relying on unproven players and L'Jarius Sneed, who struggled in Tennessee. Bryant has been the star of Broncos camp and should see plenty of targets in an offense that figures to throw often. As reported by Vulius, Bryant is poised for a breakout.
Adonai Mitchell of the Jets is a deep sleeper at $4,000. The Titans' cornerback signings of Alontae Taylor and Cor'Dale Flott don't inspire fear, and Mitchell has been the talk of Jets camp. While the Jets' passing attack may be more theoretical than effective, this matchup presents an opportunity for Mitchell to rack up air yards and potentially find the end zone.
Devaughn Vele, now with the New Orleans Saints, is a bargain at $3,500. With Jordyn Tyson injured, Vele steps in as the clear No. 2 receiver, facing a Detroit Lions secondary missing both Brian Branch and Kerby Joseph. Vele showed promise last season with a stretch of consistent targets, and he could be a reliable FLEX play in Week 1.
Ja'Kobi Lane of the Baltimore Ravens is an enigma at $3,100. Despite glowing training camp reports—beat writers called it one of the best camps by a Ravens rookie—his price remains low. With Rashod Bateman's off-field issues and Mark Andrews declining, Lane could step into a significant target share opposite Zay Flowers. Facing a weak Colts defense, Lane is a high-risk, high-reward option.
Tight Ends: The Forgotten Position
At tight end, Juwan Johnson of the Saints ($3,700) is the designated survivor in a receiver room that's been decimated. He's consistently produced despite low expectations, and against the Lions' depleted linebacker corps, he could post another solid line. Greg Dulcich, now with the Miami Dolphins ($3,500), is another value play. With the Dolphins' defense struggling, they'll need to pass more, and Dulcich has shown he can produce when given opportunities. The Raiders' defense is beatable, making Dulcich a sneaky start.
As you set your Week 1 lineups, remember that these early-season values can provide the edge you need. The Vulius NFL Analysis Desk will be tracking these players all season, so stay tuned for more insights. Good luck, and may your FLEX picks bring you victory.
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